Overview
Inspections check condition, remaining life and problems. Useful before buying or after storms.
Inspections may include attic checks.
The usual process
- Materials are delivered. Expect a delivery and a dumpster or trailer in the driveway.
- A final walk-through follows. Check flashing, vents and cleanup before you sign off.
- Describe the roof and the problem. Age, material and where you see leaks or damage help a lot.
- Expect a roof inspection. Roofers check shingles, flashing, vents and decking.
- Permits are common for replacements. Many cities require a permit to re-roof.
What affects the outcome
- Drone inspections. Some use drones.
- Weather affects scheduling. Wind, rain and cold can push installation dates.
- Underlayment and flashing matter. They often decide whether a roof leaks, not just the shingles.
- Hail is a big factor in Colorado. Hail damage can be hard to see from the ground.
- Insurance claims take time. Document damage with photos and dates before repairs.
- Ventilation affects roof life. Poor attic ventilation can shorten shingle life.
What to have ready
- Any HOA, landlord or property manager rules that apply.
- Photos, if you have them; they help a provider understand the job faster.
- Rough measurements or quantities, if they matter for the job.
- Your timeline, and whether anything is urgent.
- Your address or nearest cross streets so the request reaches someone local.
Warning signs
- Suggesting you skip a required permit to save money.
- No written estimate, or an estimate with vague scope.
- Unwilling to share proof of insurance or a license where one is required.
- Requests for large cash deposits before any work is scheduled.
- No local address or references you can check.
Questions worth asking
- Will you replace damaged decking, and how is it priced?
- How will you protect landscaping and clean up nails?
- Can you provide a written, itemized estimate?
- What does the warranty cover, and is it from you or the manufacturer?
- Will you pull the permit for a replacement?
- Are you licensed and insured where required?
Common questions
- Should I repair or replace my roof?
- It depends on age, damage extent and leaks. A roofer can help weigh repair costs against replacement.
- How often should roofs be inspected?
- Many suggest yearly and after major storms.
- Are inspections free?
- Some roofers offer free inspections; ask.
Related topics
- Roof Replacement: Full roof replacement basics.
- Hail Damage: Hail damage and insurance claims.
- Roof Repair: Fixing leaks and damaged shingles.
Have a roof inspections question for your situation? Use the form below to send an inquiry.